You are the Man/the Woman!

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 12, 2024 | John 3:1

KEY VERSE:

Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. John 3:1 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

Very often when we find ourselves in a community, we tend to forget our individuality, and in that condition, we get lost in the crowd and fail to realise our best potential. Maybe you can recall a young person who went to school, lost sight of themselves and ganged up with others who redefined their life and messed up what could have been a brilliant life.

Nicodemus is identified in our text for reflection as a man. The reference will not be to only the fact that he was a biological being. He was a man with a name, his name was Nicodemus. A name gave him social belonging, family linkages and a social reference that he was identified. He was a man of the Pharisees, he had religious convictions, was serious enough in his religion and had enough political commitment that he was a member of the highest religious rank, a member of the Jewish ruling council.

There is always a man (woman, boy or girl). In God’s dealings with us, He sees us as individuals, and we need to become aware of our individuality and what it means and demands of us, in our dealings with self, with others and with God. In every situation of life wherever we find ourselves we are that man (woman, boy or girl). In our world and time today, you are the man (woman, boy or girl) who must seek after God, come to God, commit to God, and serve the purposes of God.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Are you aware of your individual soul responsibility, and are you living as the man (woman, boy or girl) who is personally and individually accountable to God? You must also see yourself as that individual who is marked for God’s blessings and position yourself to live the abundant blessed life of the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.

PRAYER:

Lord, thank you for making me just me. I am unique and wonderfully made by your design. May I find my individuality while I operate in the community and seek after you and find you. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: MAN In John 3:1, the Greek word for "man" is "ἄνθρωπος," transliterated as "anthrōpos." ἄνθρωπος (anthrōpos): This word refers to a human being, regardless of gender.

It encompasses the idea of humanity in its broadest sense, emphasizing Nicodemus' identity as an individual with human needs, experiences, and limitations.

In the context of John 3:1, the use of "ἄνθρωπος" highlights Nicodemus' humanity and vulnerability. Despite his position of authority as a Pharisee, he approaches Jesus with a sense of curiosity and openness, acknowledging his own need for spiritual insight and guidance.

This word reminds us that Nicodemus, like all individuals, is subject to the same struggles, doubts, and questions that come with being human. It underscores the universal nature of human experience and the common desire for spiritual understanding and fulfilment.

Reflections

How does Nicodemus' portrayal as "a man" challenge us as individuals to take responsibility for seeking God and engaging in our own spiritual journey, regardless of our social status?